Guidelines for Tipping at Hotels

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I grew up in a world where we just didn’t stay in hotels.  If we traveled we went to see family and we drove until we got there.  None of this stopping along the way thing.  So when I married and started traveling with the family, I had no idea what or who or how much to tip.  This was a foreign world to me and I have always felt uncertain about the proper way to tip.  If you are like me and you are mystified by tipping when traveling, then this blog post is for you!  The American Hotel and Lodging Association has put together a nice handy guide to help all of us poor folks who just don’t know how to tip.

 

Housekeeping 

 

If you are staying at a simple hotel/motel I don’t think you need to worry about tipping.  Just putting that out there.  However, if you are staying at a nicer hotel then you really should be tipping housekeeping $1 - $5 per day.  It is best that you put the money in an envelope indicating that it is for them rather than just leaving money randomly lying around in your room each day.  I suggest that you do tip daily since the crews do sometimes change from day-to-day.  Be aware that some all-inclusive hotels will not allow their staff to accept tips.  You should check their policies before you go.  Sandals resorts to not allow tipping at all.

 

Shuttle Drivers     

 

This was news to me.  You really should be tipping the hotel shuttle drivers for their service.  I apologize to all of the shuttle drivers in the past who I neglected to tip.  The tip doesn’t need to be much $1-$2 per person should be enough.  Just a little token of your appreciation is all that is needed.

 

Valet Parking Attendants

 

I rarely stay at or go to places where they have a valet, but every once in a while it happens and I find myself flustered.  Yes, you should tip the valet, that I know, but how much, when do I tip, and will they take better care of my car if I do?  The answers are pretty simple.  They don’t make much money so of course, you tip and it should be $1 - $5. You might just want to tip as you give them the keys because, yes, they will take better care of your car if you do.  Showing appreciation works in your favor.

 

Bellstaff and Porters

 

This one is a little more clear-cut.  I learned the hard way but I did learn.  Porters and those who show you to your room should be tipped about $1 per bag.  If it is a particularly heavy bag increase the tip for their efforts.  Also, if they take the time to show you around your room and point out the amenities, tip them!  That one was new to me.  Sorry!

 

Concierge

 

It is not often that I use the concierge, but I didn’t know that I should tip them when I do.  They are there to make our stay more pleasant and that right there should have been my clue to tip.  You don’t have to tip a large sum but be sure to tip each time they assist you.  Again, it is showing your appreciation, especially if they scored you some great dinner reservations or hard to get tickets.  Tips for these types of services should be $5-$10.

 

Door Staff and Special Delivery

 

Again, I got caught on this one.   I was always taught to be respectful and polite but I was not taught the art of tipping.  When you make a request for an extra pillow, or forgotten toiletries, or even a phone charger, tip the staff that delivers them to your room.  If the door staff helps you unload your car or is helpful beyond opening the door for you, again, you should tip.  An average tip for these services should be $1-$2.  Just show your appreciation in a manner that is meaningful to them.  I always say thank you but I didn’t know that I should tip. 

 

Room Service and Bartenders

 

Finally, we are back to ones that I do know.  Simple really.  Same as you would in a restaurant, you should tip room service and bartenders 15-20%.  Easy.  A show of appreciation goes a long way and they don’t usually make money by the hour.  Most of them live off of their tips, so be kind and generous when you can.

 

Traveling can be a little tricky at times and sometimes you get caught off guard.  It happens.  But taking a few extra dollars to tip those who are of service to you should be an easy enough practice to incorporate into your travels.  Stay tuned for more fun and helpful travel information.  We are your land and cruise experts and are here to help you with every aspect of your journey.